OASIS-C and Diabetic Foot Care

by Julianne Haydel on September 16, 2009

Last week I received an email from our State OASIS Coordinator asking that we not teach OASIS- C until after her training next month. I have no problem complying with this request as the instructions for OASIS- C have not been published as yet. That doesn’t mean that we can’t take elements of the data set and outcomes and begin to implement processes that will both make the transition to OASIS-C easier and improve patient care.

One of the outcomes that will be measured in OASIS-C is diabetic foot care. Specifically, the dataset investigates whether teaching was offered to diabetic patients. Unfortunately the dataset doesn’t measure the quality of the teaching. Diabetic teaching can range from the nurse instructing the patient to wear good shoes to really taking the time to ensure the patient understands the need for and the methods of excellent foot care. Who knows, we could save a leg or two down the line if we get serious about diabetic foot care!

Below are some internet resources I found relating to diabetic foot care. Several are internet based podcasts that can be shared with patients if a computer is available. Although extra technology is involved it relieves a patient with poor vision or one who is functionally illiterate from having to read. In addition, for patients who are distrustful of technology, many of the sites offer traditional teaching guides.

http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/diabetic-guidelines.htm This is a great website from the American College of foot surgeons and has short audio podcast as well as printed literature. The podcast would also be a great teaching tool for home health care aides so they will understand the importance of reporting any changes in the foot of a diabetic patient.

Do not forget to educate home health aides on how serious even minor injuries to a diabetic foot can be. Using these same tools may improve communication between caregivers.

If anyone else knows any other places where really good, creative information is available, please post it for other readers in the comments section below. As always, we can be reached at haydelconsulting@bellsouth.net.